Bangladesh foreign minister to visit Türkiye for talks with Hakan Fidan

2026-03-13 - 10:23

Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman is scheduled to arrive in Türkiye on Saturday for his first official visit since his appointment, signaling a new phase in diplomatic engagement between Ankara and Dhaka. During his time in the capital, he will hold talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to explore avenues for expanding cooperation. Strengthening Bilateral Ties The high-level meeting between the two diplomats is expected to center on bolstering collaboration in economic and commercial fields, with particular emphasis on the defense industry, energy, education, culture, science, and health sectors. According to diplomatic sources, both sides are anticipated to reaffirm their dedication to finalizing ongoing negotiations on bilateral agreements while reiterating their mutual objective to increase the current volume of trade. Recent trade figures underscore the economic potential between the two countries. In 2025, the total bilateral trade volume reached $1.357 billion, comprising $430.6 million in exports from Türkiye and $926.4 million in imports. The upcoming dialogue seeks to build on this foundation and surpass existing benchmarks. A New Chapter in Diplomacy Rahman’s appointment as foreign minister follows a period of political transition in Bangladesh. After months of student-led protests in July 2024 and the subsequent departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, an interim government headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus managed state affairs for 18 months. General elections held on February 12, 2026, paved the way for a new administration, with Rahman taking the helm of the foreign ministry. His visit to Türkiye marks an important step in re-establishing high-level contacts and signaling Dhaka’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ankara under the new government.